PBS kicks off Explore the Outdoors program

BY CAMILLIA LANHAM

PBS encourages children to enjoy nature with its Explore the Outdoors program. It’s wildflower season in Santa Barbara County, so residents can check out the blooms at local parks.

PHOTO BY CAMILLIA LANHAM

The Santa Maria Recreation and Parks Department is encouraging parents to get their children away from the electronics and into the outdoors as part of PBS’s April program, Explore the Outdoors.

“With an abundance of parks located in Santa Maria, there are plenty of innovative ways to help get your family back to nature,” a press release sent out by the department said.

The National Recreation and Park Association is working with PBS Kids and PBS stations across the country to promote the program. Santa Maria Recreation and Parks included a list of free activities in its press release that anyone can participate in: walking, encouraging children to watch for wildlife, scavenger hunts, picnics in the park, running games such as hide and seek, making art from nature, and watching the clouds.

On April 19, Los Flores Ranch Park is holding a Nature Play Day from 8:30 a.m. to noon to help promote the program. There will be eight interactive activities along the trail to help children learn about nature. This event is free, and free round-trip transportation is available from the Abel Maldonado Community Youth Center. Call 925-0951, Ext. 260, to reserve a shuttle spot. Directions to Los Flores can be found at cityofsantamaria.org/losfloresranchpark.

“Explore the Outdoors campaign is designed to help families rediscover the vast benefits of their local parks,” the press release said. “Step away from the smart phones and enjoy the experience with your family.”